Diversion Opens Door To Theft

HEBRON — State police said Thursday they are investigating a theft that occurred when a man coaxed a woman out of her home as a diversion while another person entered the house.

The woman said that at about 2:15 p.m. Tuesday, a man in his mid-30s came to her home on Route 66 and said he represented a company that was going to remove some trees from her rear property line. She said he persuaded her to go outside to a spot out of sight of the front of the house.

While she was outside, another person went inside and stole a large amount of cash, Resident State Trooper Stephen Wengloski said. The pair were driving a white van or SUV, he said.

State Police Sgt. Sidney Luther said that Thursday morning, a different vehicle returned but the woman didn't let anyone inside and called police. The vehicle, which she described as a gray or tan, full-size four-door pickup with a short bed and tinted windows, had several men inside. It left before police arrived, Luther said, adding that the truck might have had out-of-state plates.

Luther said residents, especially senior citizens, should be on the lookout for swindles.

Wengloski said there haven't been many reports of such activities in the area, but that this is the time of year that they usually take place. Driveway sealing and home improvement schemes are common forms.

``One of the biggest things is, don't let people in your home or get taken outside if you're home alone,'' he said. ``And always ask for ID and make sure they're with who they say they're with. Most of the time they don't go to the trouble of faking IDs because they think people are gullible.''

State police are investigating the burglary. Anyone with information is asked to call 860-228-3710 or 860-537-7500.